Honoring Our Heroes: The Impact of Black Dagger Military Hunt Club on Veterans’ Healing and Community Connection
Veterans Find Healing and Community Through Black Dagger Military Hunt Club
As the season of giving approaches, a remarkable nonprofit organization is making waves in the Tampa Bay area, offering veterans a unique path to healing and connection. Black Dagger Military Hunt Club Inc. (MHC), founded by 20-year U.S. Air Force veteran Dave Winters, has been transforming the lives of wounded, disabled, and non-disabled veterans since its inception in 2012.
Trent Cotney, a Tampa Partner and Construction Team Leader, first encountered Black Dagger MHC nearly a decade ago. What began as a simple donation quickly evolved into a deep commitment to the organization’s mission. “They weren’t just providing free hunting and fishing trips; they were empowering veterans with the resources, connections, and support systems to help them reconnect with civilian life,” Cotney explained.
The nonprofit has become a beacon of hope for veterans struggling to reintegrate into their communities. With a focus on outdoor activities, Black Dagger MHC offers a range of adaptive sports, including hunting, fishing, and clay shooting competitions. These activities not only provide a sense of adventure but also foster camaraderie among veterans, helping them reclaim their identities and sense of purpose.
Since its founding, Black Dagger MHC has engaged thousands of veterans in outdoor adventures, utilizing state-of-the-art adaptive technology to ensure inclusivity. For instance, veterans with severe disabilities can participate in activities using specialized equipment like sip-and-puff triggers or audio guidance. One poignant example is a veteran who, despite losing four fingers and suffering severe burns and blindness from combat injuries, continues to hunt and sky dive, proving that limitations can be overcome.
The organization collaborates closely with the James A. Haley VA Hospital’s Adaptive Sports Program, the largest spinal cord injury unit in the country, to support veterans recovering from traumatic injuries. Black Dagger MHC also partners with the U.S. Special Operations Warrior Care Coalition and various military support organizations, creating a robust network of resources for veterans.
The annual Black Dagger MHC Military Hunt Club Menton Dinner, held this past Saturday, exemplifies the community’s commitment to supporting veterans. This year’s event honored the legacy of the First Special Service Force, known as the “Devils Brigade,” and featured notable speakers, including Florida Lt. Gov. Jarrid ‘Jay’ Collins, a retired Army Green Beret. The event also celebrated Mae Krier, a 99-year-old Rosie the Riveter, who contributed to the war effort during World War II.
Black Dagger MHC operates on the principle of Ohana—family—recognizing that healing requires a supportive community. With no paid staff, every dollar raised goes directly to veterans, ensuring that the organization’s mission remains pure and impactful.
As we enter this holiday season, let us celebrate the incredible work of Black Dagger MHC and similar organizations that provide veterans with the invaluable gifts of connection, community, and the chance to thrive. By supporting these initiatives, we honor the sacrifices made by our veterans and help them reclaim their lives in the great outdoors.